marybonnet.com is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com.
If there’s one thing I’ve learned from my journey – from working at Methodist Hospital to becoming a luxury real estate agent and TV personality – it’s that staying true to yourself is everything.
Let me share some real lessons I’ve learned about building an authentic personal brand.
Starting with Your Values
I grew up in Indiana with strong midwestern values – hard work, honesty, and treating others well. Even as my career has evolved, these principles haven’t changed. Whether I’m selling multi-million dollar properties or filming Selling Sunset, I always remember what my dad taught me about integrity and what my mom showed me about dedication.
Quick Reality Check: Your personal brand isn’t about creating a perfect image; it’s about being consistently yourself.
Setting Professional Boundaries
This has been one of my biggest learning curves. Here’s what I’ve discovered works:
1. Clear Communication
– Be direct about your availability
– Set realistic expectations
– Don’t be afraid to say no
– Keep promises you make
2. Time Management
– Prioritize important tasks
– Don’t overcommit
– Make time for self-care
– Balance multiple responsibilities
Resources that help me stay organized:
Building Authentic Relationships
One thing I’ve always believed: if you value authenticity, you’ll attract authentic people. In my experience:
– Be genuine in every interaction
– Support others’ success
– Address conflicts directly
– Maintain relationships even when you don’t need anything
Professional Integrity in the Public Eye
Being on Selling Sunset brought new challenges to maintaining authenticity.
Here’s what I’ve learned:
– Stay true to your values, even when cameras are rolling
– Don’t engage in drama that compromises your principles
– Remember that your reputation is everything in business
– Keep your professional standards high, regardless of pressure
Setting Personal Standards
My non-negotiables:
– Being honest with clients
– Following through on commitments
– Maintaining professional ethics
– Treating everyone with respect
– Standing up for what’s right
Tools for maintaining professionalism:
Handling Growth While Staying Grounded
Success brings new challenges to authenticity. I’ve learned to:
– Stay connected to my roots
– Remember where I started
– Keep trusted advisors close
– Check in with my core values regularly
The Power of Vulnerability
Being real means:
– Admitting when you’re wrong
– Learning from mistakes
– Sharing your journey
– Being open about challenges
– Supporting others through difficult times
Real Talk: Authenticity in Business
Some hard-earned wisdom:
– Your word is your bond
– Trust takes years to build, seconds to break
– Quality work speaks louder than self-promotion
– Real relationships matter more than quick deals
Tools for authentic business growth:
– Professional development resources
Remember: A personal brand isn’t something you create – it’s something you nurture through consistent actions and authentic relationships.
Looking Forward
As my brand continues to grow, staying authentic remains my north star. It’s not always the easiest path, but it’s the only sustainable one.
Final Thoughts:
– Stay true to your values
– Build genuine relationships
– Maintain clear boundaries
– Keep your promises
– Support others
– Learn from mistakes
– Remember your roots
What are your experiences with building an authentic personal brand? Share with me over on Instagram.
XOXO,
Mary 💫
